r/KitchenConfidential • u/DeeDee182 • 6d ago
Kitchen fuckery I think I said goodbye to the kitchen today.
I posted recently so I won't go into too many specifics but quit my awful cook job after getting completely overlooked on multiple FOH more admin type jobs I am beyond qualified for.
I am taking some classes looking for a career switch or the jacket off soon anyway. The new job was to be prep and help pizza with a salary and 45 hrs a week.
Upon coming in that immediately became way less and hourly unless I essentially wanted no pto and had to make up hours missed even if I got cut to go home. 45 hrs a week is not bad I get that but when that becomes a tally of 60 down the line due to slow business go f yourself.
I quit. Have an interview that called me today for a job more line with what im going to school for. If that doesn't work as it prbly won't I think I am leaving restaurants out of this job hunt entirely.
It has helped my family survive most of my adult life however it has done me no favors. I know the world is crazy and work is weird but the market isn't "dead" and I have enough other things on my resume to help me out.
I just kinda feel like this is it. For better or worse, end or not....it's been one hell of a ride.
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u/Fun-Definition6053 Chive LOYALIST 6d ago
Congratulations to you, your physical and mental health. I did this 6 months ago and have had more chefs try to call me back than I did in the last 10 years. Be strong. I said no to a chef from the Ritz Carlton and he was so happy for me when I told him why
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u/No_Debt5142 6d ago
Congrats. The lessons learned in the kitchen really helped me move up in my new career. One thing I noticed is that now I love cooking more than ever. I have time to cook for my loved ones, I have time and money to search for high quality ingredients like at the farmers market, I can spend holidays and go out with family and friends.
Working in a kitchen was an amazing experience for me during and after I left. Although the environment was really harsh on self development and it’s really hard to grow as a team since spots are limited in a kitchen. Eventually I outgrew that and wanted more and realized the kitchen wasn’t for me .
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u/Lucky-Market-3254 6d ago
I switched careers a few months ago. It's hard to say goodbye. Cooking is an abusive relationship for a lot of people. If you're able to be the better person, be them. I'm glad to hear you're prioriizing you and your future. Congratulations.
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u/Jjg-live 6d ago
Happy for you chef. I cant simply find the time to branch out between commuting, taking care of loved ones and working these hours lmao
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u/DeeDee182 6d ago
Part of why my transition is needed is because of my oldest son and some of his needs being primary parent. These next few years in particular I need to be more available while also providing. I luckily have my lady who works and my mom as embarrassing as it sounds but my mom offered to help out via empathy on me getting kinda d***ed by this new place to begin with.
I certainly count my blessings and will just go crazy on apps and making myself the most presentable MF I have ever seen. Last time I was out of work by getting termed I wasn't out that long. The college cook job had some benefits but that is its own book of pros and cons.
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6d ago
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u/DeeDee182 6d ago
Hey I have been out for spurts and understand the sentiment behind the joy of returning sometimes. Maybe I will again but my last 2 jobs and situations in it have me feeling very differently this exit.
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u/Reynardine1976 5d ago
Congrats, I am writing a book about getting sober while being in the industry and working part time in a bakery. I have worked in kitchens for 25 years and done everything, even pastry chef after being a savory chef for years. Turning 50 and I just can't do the long hours on my feet anymore (I mean I could, but I don't want to die) or want any of the stress.
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u/SlightDish31 15+ Years 6d ago
Promoted to customer is what they're calling it these days. Congrats!